Recognizing the potential benefits information technology can bring to education and, ultimately, California's economy, Senate Bill 600 (Rosenthal) created a task force to address and report on the exigent need for technology in all public schools and public libraries. After 18 months of research and regular meetings, the task force compiled this report which: (1) articulates a vision for technology in our public schools, public libraries, and communities; (2) establishes the need for technology; (3) outlines various financing options to bring the information age to these learning institutions; and (4) proposes a grant program to disburse funds. The report consists of four main sections, with the first two sections addressing the technological needs of California schools and libraries and recommending how to best meet those needs. The first section contains a report of the current status of technology in public schools and public libraries. Then, the second section provides an assessment of needs in five areas considered vital to the technological survival of California's education and library systems: (1) access/equipment; (2) staff development/technical support; (3) information/resource management and collaboration; (4) evaluation/assessment; and (5) governance/coordination. The third section explores funding accelerated deployment and adoption of telecommunications and information infrastructure for California schools and libraries and outlines some of the main considerations in choosing among potential funding options. Five major types of funding sources are identified: state and federal programs and funding; California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) related single event funding; regulatory and legislative rate making; debt financing; and tax financing. The fourth section identifies grant program criteria. Appendices include seven tasks identified by SB 600 task force; estimated costs to establish a school networking infrastructure for California public schools and for public libraries; current state-level funding and future prospects; and current federal-level funding. (Contains 35 references.) (AEF)